Summary

The Gulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study (GIAS) Fellowship invites international scholars, independent researchers, intellectuals, and practicing artists to spend 3 to 8 months in Lisbon, Portugal. This residential fellowship provides fully funded support, dedicated workspaces, and uninterrupted time to pursue original intellectual or creative projects in an interdisciplinary academic community.

Designation

  • Program Type: Research & Creative Fellowship (Non-degree Residential Fellowship)
  • Host Organization: Gulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study (GIAS) / Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

Key Program Overview

FeatureDetails
Host InstitutionGulbenkian Institute for Advanced Study (GIAS)
Host CountryPortugal
Program LocationLisbon, Portugal
Funding TypeFully Funded
Duration3 to 8 months
Target AudienceAcademic Researchers, Independent Scholars, Retired Professors, Artists
Eligible NationalitiesAll Nationalities (Worldwide)
Application DeadlineOctober 15, 2026

Research & Study Areas

The fellowship supports non-laboratory and desk-based research across the humanities, social sciences, and arts, including:

  • History
  • Philosophy
  • Literature
  • Political Science & Political Theory
  • Archaeology
  • Sociology & Anthropology
  • Economics
  • Cultural Studies & Musicology
  • Fine Arts & Visual Arts
  • Interdisciplinary Studies

(Note: Projects must not require experimental equipment or laboratory facilities.)

Location

  • City/Country: Lisbon, Portugal (Fellows reside at the Institute in Lisbon for the duration of the fellowship).

Eligibility & Qualifications

  • Nationality: Open to candidates of all nationalities.
  • Academic/Professional Background:
    • Esteemed scholars or established academic researchers.
    • Independent academics who have made substantial intellectual contributions.
    • Retired professors and accomplished professionals with notable records.
    • Practicing artists with significant creative portfolios.
  • Degree/Language Constraints: No mandatory PhD requirement; no Portuguese language proficiency required.
  • Project Nature: The proposed work must be an original research or creative project suitable for residential study.
  • Residency: Must be willing to reside in Lisbon throughout the fellowship.
  • Reapplication Rule: Past Gulbenkian fellows must wait at least 5 years after completing a prior fellowship to reapply.

Scholarship Description & Benefits

The fellowship offers financial support and resources to ensure scholars can focus on their projects with minimal administrative duties:

  • Monthly Stipend: Financial stipend provided per month.
  • Housing Allowance: Financial support to cover accommodation in Lisbon.
  • Facilities & Workspace: Access to Institute office space, research facilities, and libraries.
  • Academic Community: Collaborative engagement with international researchers through workshops, seminars, and intellectual discussions.

How to Apply

  1. Account Registration: Create an account on the MyGulbenkian online portal.
  2. Online Form: Complete the digital application form.
  3. Upload Documents: Submit the following materials:
    • Updated CV / Resume
    • Research or Creative Project Proposal (tailored for residential study)
    • Academic transcripts (if applicable)
    • Contact details of two professional referees (recommendation letters)
    • Any relevant supporting documentation
  4. Review & Submission: Verify all details and submit the application online before the deadline.

Last Date for Apply

  • Application Deadline: October 15, 2026